In the fundamental study of the catalytic ozone decomposition, transition metal oxides exhibite poor stability by water vapor. In situ Raman spectroscopy confirmed that the decomposition and desorption of peroxygenates on the surface of the manganese oxide catalyst were a speed limiting step. The accumulation of peroxygenates on manganese cobalt spinel greatly slowed down with first discovery (Fig. 1), leading for the high activity and stability (Appl. Catal. B: Environ. 2022, 303, 120927).

Fig. 1 Scheme of the O₃ catalytic decomposition mechanism over manganese cobalt spinel

For industrial applications, the first prize of environmental technology progress of China Environmental Protection Association about water-based coating was obtained. The project developed a system solution for water-based coating materials to replace traditional solvent-based coatings. A series of high-performance water-based coatings were successfully painted on 600 km/h maglev (Fig. 2). The solvent content is reduced by more than 92%, with significant economic and ecological benefits.

Fig. 2 Application of 600 km/h maglev paint effect

Additionally, an isolation technique for high-value utilization of NdFeB had been developed, and completed 100 kilograms scale of experimental verification (Fig. 3). Ultra-high temperature ceramic matrix composites and ceramic precursor were synthesized and applied in batches. Significant results had been achieved in high-performance graphene conductive agent for lithium-ion batteries, efficient fuel cell catalyst design, phase reconstruction of carbon composite refractory materials, efficient separation of precious metals by micro-fine gold ore, and superelastic SiC nanofiber aerogel.

Fig. 3 Application of NdFeB high-value recovery for 100 kg scale